PM Modi Speaks To Shubhanshu Shukla, The First Indian To Step Into International Space Station

Prime Minister Narendra Modi on Saturday talked to Group Captain Shubhanshu Shukla, who made history as the first Indian to reach the International Space Station. The Prime Minister's Office shared visuals of their interaction on its official X handle, showing both Modi and Shukla smiling during their exchange. The conversation is set to be broadcast soon.

Shukla is part of the Axiom-4 mission, which launched from NASA's Kennedy Space Centre in Florida. The SpaceX Dragon spacecraft completed a 28-hour journey before successfully docking at the ISS's Harmony module. Joining Shukla were mission commander Peggy Whitson from the United States and mission specialists Sawosz Uznanski from Poland and Tibor Kapu from Hungary.

Historic Return to Human Spaceflight

This achievement marks India's significant return to human spaceflight, coming 41 years after Rakesh Sharma's groundbreaking mission in 1984. Shukla expressed his excitement about the mission, stating that while it appeared easy on camera, he felt a bit heavy-headed. He officially received a Space Station pin, becoming astronaut number 634.

In his welcome remarks, Shukla shared his enthusiasm for the upcoming two weeks aboard the ISS. "I was looking forward to this, and the crew made me feel so welcome and opened their doors for us," he said. He added that his expectations had been exceeded by the view and the current crew.

Ambitious Research Agenda

The Ax-4 team will spend around 14 days on the ISS, collaborating with Expedition 73 crew members. They will conduct over 60 scientific experiments and educational outreach activities, marking it as Axiom's most ambitious research agenda yet. Their work will include projects in cancer research, DNA repair, and advanced manufacturing.

Shukla sent an emotional message from orbit before docking, greeting Indians with "Namaskar from space." He expressed pride in carrying the hopes of 1.4 billion Indians on his shoulders. This reflects the growing role of commercial and international partnerships in space exploration.

The mission pilot described his experience as exciting and great. "The next 14 days are going to be exciting and great," he stated enthusiastically. This milestone highlights India's continued commitment to advancing its presence in space exploration.